+---
+title: Metal Fabrications
+category: Structural / Steel & Metal Fabrications
+toc_depth: 3
+description: >
+ When to use: architecturally exposed, custom shop-fabricated steel, stainless, and aluminum elements that complete the building envelope and interior fit-out but are not primary framing or standard stair/railing assemblies. Covers custom canopy and sunshade (brise-soleil) frames and blades, architectural screens and grille panels, custom access hatches and pit/trench covers with architectural frames, pipe sleeves and escutcheons, equipment enclosures and housings with specified finishes, corner guards with architectural finishes, coping and cap-angle assemblies, planter and site-furniture frames, and custom steel trim. Use where the metal is exposed to view and the architect specifies finish, profile, tolerance, and assembly.
+ Not intended for: utility miscellaneous metals - loose lintels, shelf angles, bollards, fixed ladders, embed plates, bar grating, floor plate, and equipment supports (use sync/miscellaneous-metals); primary hot-rolled framing, connections, and erection (sync/structural-steel-framing, sync/structural-steel-connections); shop-fabricated metal stairs, handrails, and guardrails (sync/metal-stairs-and-railings); metal wall panel cladding (sync/metal-wall-panels); light-gauge framing (sync/cold-formed-metal-framing); aluminum storefronts and entrances (sync/aluminum-entrances-and-storefronts); coiling doors and grilles (sync/overhead-coiling-doors); post-installed anchorage to concrete (sync/post-installed-anchors); and the topcoat system itself over shop primer or galvanizing (sync/high-performance-coatings).
+---
+
+# Scope {toc}
+
+## This Standard governs architecturally exposed, custom shop-fabricated metal elements that complete the building envelope and interior fit-out but are not primary structural framing or standard stair and railing assemblies. {note}
+
+## Architecturally exposed metal fabrications are items where the architect specifies the finish, profile, tolerance class, and visual quality, and where the fabricator works to a design-intent drawing rather than to a purely utility function. {note}
+
+## The defining distinction from utility miscellaneous metals is intent, not material. {note}
+
+### A utility item performs a function (a lintel carries masonry, a bollard stops a vehicle, an embed transfers load) and is judged by whether it works; an architectural fabrication is additionally judged by how it looks, and its finish, weld quality, and tolerance are specified accordingly. The same steel angle is utility work in one location and architectural work in another. {note}
+
+## The following work is included under this Standard:
+
+- Custom steel canopy and entry-sunshade frames with plate or tube blade fins.
+- Aluminum and steel sunshade, brise-soleil, and trellis (sun-control) blade assemblies, fixed or adjustable.
+- Welded architectural screens, decorative grille panels, and perforated feature panels.
+- Custom access hatches and pit, trench, and floor covers with architectural-grade frames.
+- Metal pipe sleeves and escutcheons exposed to view in finished spaces.
+- Custom steel equipment enclosures and housings requiring a specified finish.
+- Fabricated corner guards and edge protection with architectural finishes.
+- Custom coping, cap-angle, planter, and site-furniture frame assemblies.
+- Custom-fabricated steel architectural trim elements.
+
+## The following work is excluded and is governed by other Standards. {note}
+
+### Loose lintels, masonry shelf angles, bollards, fixed ladders, embed plates, bar grating, floor plate, and utility equipment supports are utility miscellaneous metals governed by [[sync/miscellaneous-metals]]; they are excluded here even when fabricated of the same materials. {note}
+
+### Primary hot-rolled framing, beams, columns, braces, and their connections and field erection are governed by [[sync/structural-steel-framing]] and [[sync/structural-steel-connections]]. {note}
+
+### Metal stairs, stair pans, handrails, and guardrails on walking surfaces are governed by [[sync/metal-stairs-and-railings]], which carries the life-safety load and geometry requirements. {note}
+
+### Metal wall panel cladding, light-gauge framing, aluminum storefronts and entrances, and overhead coiling doors and grilles are governed by [[sync/metal-wall-panels]], [[sync/cold-formed-metal-framing]], [[sync/aluminum-entrances-and-storefronts]], and [[sync/overhead-coiling-doors]] respectively. {note}
+
+### Post-installed anchors used to attach these fabrications to hardened concrete are governed by [[sync/post-installed-anchors]]; the high-performance topcoat system applied over the shop primer or galvanizing is governed by [[sync/high-performance-coatings]]. This Standard specifies only the surface preparation and the shop primer or galvanize base that those coatings bond to. {note}
+
+# Referenced Standards {toc}
+
+## Fabrication, welding, materials, finishing, and installation shall comply with the latest adopted edition of each of the following unless a specific edition is cited or the Authority Having Jurisdiction has adopted a particular edition.
+
+## Where referenced standards conflict, the more stringent requirement shall govern unless the Engineer of Record directs otherwise in writing.
+
+| Standard | Title |
+|----------|-------|
+| ANSI/AISC 360 | Specification for Structural Steel Buildings |
+| ANSI/AISC 303 | Code of Standard Practice for Steel Buildings and Bridges |
+| AWS D1.1/D1.1M | Structural Welding Code - Steel |
+| AWS D1.2/D1.2M | Structural Welding Code - Aluminum |
+| AWS D1.6/D1.6M | Structural Welding Code - Stainless Steel |
+| ASTM A36/A36M | Carbon Structural Steel |
+| ASTM A572/A572M | High-Strength Low-Alloy Columbium-Vanadium Structural Steel |
+| ASTM A500/A500M | Cold-Formed Welded and Seamless Carbon Steel Structural Tubing |
+| ASTM A53/A53M | Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless |
+| ASTM A240/A240M | Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip |
+| ASTM A276/A276M | Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes |
+| ASTM B209/B209M | Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate |
+| ASTM B221/B221M | Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Extruded Bars, Rods, Wire, Profiles, and Tubes |
+| ASTM A123/A123M | Zinc (Hot-Dip Galvanized) Coatings on Iron and Steel Products |
+| ASTM A153/A153M | Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware |
+| ASTM A385/A385M | Providing High-Quality Zinc Coatings (Hot-Dip) |
+| ASTM A588/A588M | High-Strength Low-Alloy Structural Steel with 50 ksi Minimum Yield Point (Weathering Steel) |
+| ASTM A847/A847M | Cold-Formed Welded and Seamless High-Strength Low-Alloy Structural Tubing with Improved Atmospheric Corrosion Resistance (Weathering HSS) |
+| ASTM A780/A780M | Repair of Damaged and Uncoated Areas of Hot-Dip Galvanized Coatings |
+| ASTM F1554 | Anchor Bolts, Steel, 36, 55, and 105 ksi Yield Strength |
+| AAMA 2604 | High Performance Organic Coatings on Aluminum Extrusions and Panels |
+| AAMA 2605 | Superior Performing Organic Coatings on Aluminum Extrusions and Panels |
+| SSPC-SP 3 | Power Tool Cleaning (Surface Preparation) |
+| SSPC-SP 6/NACE No. 3 | Commercial Blast Cleaning (Surface Preparation) |
+| NAAMM AMP 500 | Metal Finishes Manual for Architectural and Metal Products |
+| IBC | International Building Code (locally adopted edition) |
+| ASCE/SEI 7 | Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures |
+
+# Submittals {toc}
+
+## Action Submittals {toc}
+
+### The Contractor shall submit the following action submittals for review before fabrication:
+
+- Shop drawings for each fabrication, showing profiles, sizes, thicknesses, joint and weld details, finishes, and connection and anchorage details.
+- Coordination embed drawings locating all cast-in items the fabricator depends on, formatted for transmittal to the concrete contractor.
+- Product data for sunshade and brise-soleil blade systems, access hatches, corner guards, and proprietary components.
+- Samples of each specified finish on the actual substrate metal, minimum 8 in. by 8 in., including color and gloss for coated finishes and the polish grade for stainless.
+- A finish color and gloss range submittal where a custom or matched color is specified.
+- Delegated-design calculations and shop drawings sealed by a professional engineer for each fabrication carrying gravity, wind, snow, or seismic load.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Action submittals required
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - Shop drawings (profiles, joints, welds, connections)
+ - Coordination embed drawings for concrete contractor
+ - Product data (sunshades, hatches, corner guards, components)
+ - Finish samples on actual substrate metal
+ - Finish color and gloss range submittal
+ - Sealed delegated-design calculations
+defaults:
+ - Shop drawings (profiles, joints, welds, connections)
+ - Coordination embed drawings for concrete contractor
+ - Product data (sunshades, hatches, corner guards, components)
+ - Finish samples on actual substrate metal
+```
+
+### Shop drawings shall be coordinated with verified field dimensions and shall not be based solely on the contract drawings for any tight-tolerance piece that connects to previously erected work.
+
+## Informational Submittals {toc}
+
+### The Contractor shall submit the following informational submittals:
+
+- Welding procedure specifications (WPS) and welder and welding-operator qualification records for the applicable AWS code.
+- Mill certificates or certified material test reports for steel, stainless, and aluminum.
+- Galvanizer certification of coating thickness and conformance to ASTM A123 for galvanized items.
+- Coating applicator certification and certified dry-film-thickness records for shop-applied primer and high-performance coatings.
+- The delegated-design engineer's qualification statement and jurisdiction of licensure.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Informational submittals required
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - Welding procedures and welder qualifications (WPS/PQR)
+ - Mill certificates / certified material test reports
+ - Galvanizer ASTM A123 coating certification
+ - Coating applicator certification and DFT records
+ - Delegated-design engineer qualification statement
+defaults:
+ - Welding procedures and welder qualifications (WPS/PQR)
+ - Mill certificates / certified material test reports
+ - Galvanizer ASTM A123 coating certification
+```
+
+## Closeout Submittals {toc}
+
+### The Contractor shall submit the following closeout submittals before final acceptance:
+
+- Operation and maintenance data for adjustable or motorized sunshades, including lubrication and actuator service intervals.
+- Finish maintenance and cleaning instructions appropriate to each specified finish.
+- Executed warranty documents for fabrications and for coating systems.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Closeout submittals required
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - O&M data for adjustable / motorized sunshades
+ - Finish maintenance and cleaning instructions
+ - Executed warranty documents
+defaults:
+ - Finish maintenance and cleaning instructions
+ - Executed warranty documents
+```
+
+# Quality Assurance {toc}
+
+## Qualifications {toc}
+
+### The fabricator shall be a firm regularly engaged in architecturally exposed metal fabrication with a minimum of five years of documented experience on projects of comparable scope and finish quality.
+
+### Welding shall be performed only by welders and welding operators qualified under the applicable AWS code for the process, position, and material being joined.
+
+### Where delegated design is required, the calculations and shop drawings shall be prepared and sealed by a professional engineer licensed in the jurisdiction of the Project.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fabricator minimum experience
+type: select
+unit: years
+options:
+ - "3"
+ - "5"
+ - "10"
+default: "5"
+```
+
+## Architecturally Exposed Quality Class {toc}
+
+### Architecturally exposed structural and metal fabrications (AESS-equivalent quality) are held to a higher visual standard than utility steel: welds are ground, surfaces are uniform, and fabrication marks are removed. The contract drawings must designate which members are architecturally exposed, because the quality class drives cost. {note}
+
+### Structural weld-quality criteria under AWS D1.1 permit visible undercut, spatter, and weld-profile variation that are acceptable on concealed work but unacceptable on exposed work. Specifying "architecturally exposed" without stating the weld-finish expectation invites a structural-quality result on a visible element. {note}
+
+### Welds on architecturally exposed surfaces shall be continuous, shall be ground smooth and flush or to the contoured profile shown, and shall be free of visible undercut, porosity, and spatter.
+
+### Exposed surfaces shall be free of grinding marks, weld discoloration, and fabrication and handling damage at the completed finish.
+
+### Members shall be designated on the drawings as architecturally exposed; members not so designated shall meet standard structural fabrication quality.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fabrication quality class
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Standard structural (utility, concealed)
+ - Architecturally exposed (smooth ground welds, coordinated finish)
+default: Architecturally exposed (smooth ground welds, coordinated finish)
+```
+
+## Mockups {toc}
+
+### A visual mockup establishes the accepted standard for weld appearance, surface finish, and color before the fabricator commits to full production, and it resolves disputes about acceptable quality before they multiply across many pieces. {note}
+
+### The fabricator shall provide a mockup of a representative architecturally exposed fabrication, complete with the specified finish, for review and acceptance before full fabrication proceeds.
+
+### The accepted mockup shall establish the minimum standard of quality for the Work and shall be maintained until completion.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Mockup required before full fabrication
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Yes - representative exposed fabrication with finish"
+ - "No - sample finishes only"
+default: "Yes - representative exposed fabrication with finish"
+```
+
+# Environmental and Service Conditions {toc}
+
+## Exposure Category {toc}
+
+### Material selection, finish system, and corrosion protection are governed first by exposure. An interior dry corner guard, an exterior sheltered canopy, and a coastal sunshade are the same family of work with three different specifications. {note}
+
+### The exposure category for each fabrication shall be established from its installed location, and the material and finish shall be selected to match that exposure.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Exposure category
+type: select
+options:
+ - Interior dry
+ - Interior moist or corrosive
+ - Exterior sheltered
+ - Exterior fully exposed
+ - Coastal / marine (within ~1 mile of salt water or deicing-salt zone)
+default: Exterior fully exposed
+```
+
+## Coastal and Corrosive Exposure {toc}
+
+### Type 304 stainless steel is not adequate in chloride-bearing environments. Within roughly one mile of salt water, or where deicing salts are present, Type 304 pits and tea-stains; Type 316/316L, with its molybdenum content, is the correct alloy. Specifying Type 304 for a coastal handrail-adjacent screen or a parking-structure fabrication is a frequent and visible error. {note}
+
+### Stainless steel exposed to coastal, marine, or deicing-salt environments shall be Type 316/316L; Type 304 shall not be used in those exposures.
+
+### Carbon steel in moist, corrosive, or exterior exposure shall be hot-dip galvanized after fabrication as the base of its corrosion-protection system.
+
+## Structural Design Loads {toc}
+
+### Canopies and sunshades are wind-governed cantilevers and projecting elements; their failure mode in a storm is dramatic and a life-safety concern. The design must account for wind uplift and lateral pressure, snow where applicable, and a serviceability deflection limit so the element does not visibly sag or oscillate. {note}
+
+### Load-carrying fabrications shall be designed for the governing combination of dead, live, wind, snow, and seismic loads per the locally adopted IBC and ASCE/SEI 7 for the Project's site exposure category.
+
+### Visually prominent elements such as canopies and sunshades shall be designed to a serviceability deflection limit not exceeding L/240 under the governing service load unless a stricter limit is shown.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Serviceability deflection limit (visual elements)
+type: select
+options:
+ - L/180
+ - L/240
+ - L/360
+default: L/240
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Site wind exposure category (ASCE 7)
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Exposure B (urban / suburban / wooded)
+ - Exposure C (open terrain)
+ - Exposure D (flat unobstructed / coastal)
+default: Exposure C (open terrain)
+drawing_ref: true
+```
+
+# Materials {toc}
+
+## Carbon Steel {toc}
+
+### Carbon steel is the default material for most fabricated elements because it is economical, weldable, and accepts galvanizing and coatings well. Grade 50 low-alloy steel is selected where a slender exposed profile demands a thinner section than mild steel allows. {note}
+
+### Carbon steel plate, bar, and shapes shall conform to ASTM A36 (Fy = 36 ksi) except where a higher strength is required, in which case ASTM A572 Grade 50 (Fy = 50 ksi) shall be used.
+
+### Hollow structural sections (tube) shall conform to ASTM A500 Grade C.
+
+### Steel pipe shall conform to ASTM A53 Grade B.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Carbon steel plate, bar, and shape grade
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "ASTM A36 - Fy = 36 ksi (default)"
+ - "ASTM A572 Gr 50 - Fy = 50 ksi (slender exposed profiles)"
+default: "ASTM A36 - Fy = 36 ksi (default)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hollow structural section (HSS / tube)
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "ASTM A500 Gr C - Fy = 46 ksi round / 50 ksi square and rectangular"
+ - "ASTM A53 Gr B pipe"
+default: "ASTM A500 Gr C - Fy = 46 ksi round / 50 ksi square and rectangular"
+```
+
+## Stainless Steel {toc}
+
+### Stainless steel is selected where a bare metallic finish is the architectural intent or where corrosion resistance without a coating is required. The alloy choice is an exposure decision, not an aesthetic one. {note}
+
+### Stainless steel plate and sheet shall conform to ASTM A240, and bars and shapes shall conform to ASTM A276, in the alloy required for the exposure.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Stainless steel alloy
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Type 304/304L (interior and non-coastal exterior)"
+ - "Type 316/316L (coastal, marine, deicing-salt, or aggressive)"
+default: "Type 304/304L (interior and non-coastal exterior)"
+```
+
+## Aluminum {toc}
+
+### Aluminum is the standard material for sunshade and brise-soleil blades and for lightweight architectural trim, because extrusions give crisp profiles at low weight and accept high-durability factory coatings. Alloy 6063-T5 is the architectural default; 6061-T6 is used where higher strength is needed. {note}
+
+### Aluminum extrusions shall conform to ASTM B221, and aluminum sheet and plate shall conform to ASTM B209.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Aluminum extrusion alloy and temper
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "6063-T5 (architectural default - sunshade blades, trim)"
+ - "6061-T6 (higher strength)"
+default: "6063-T5 (architectural default - sunshade blades, trim)"
+```
+
+## Galvanic Isolation {toc}
+
+### Aluminum in direct contact with steel forms a galvanic couple that corrodes the aluminum in the presence of moisture. Sunshade blades and arms attached to steel supports are a classic failure: the aluminum sacrifices itself at the joint and the connection loosens and stains. Isolation at the interface is mandatory, not optional. {note}
+
+### Dissimilar-metal connections between aluminum and steel shall be isolated with a non-absorptive neoprene or EPDM gasket or an equivalent dielectric barrier at the faying surfaces.
+
+### Fasteners at dissimilar-metal connections shall be stainless steel.
+
+# Fabrication {toc}
+
+## Welding {toc}
+
+### Welding of carbon steel shall conform to AWS D1.1.
+
+### Welding of aluminum shall conform to AWS D1.2.
+
+### Welding of stainless steel shall conform to AWS D1.6.
+
+### Welds shall be made with filler metal matched to the base metal and the exposure.
+
+### Stainless welds in corrosive exposure shall be cleaned and passivated to restore corrosion resistance at the weld zone.
+
+## Tolerances {toc}
+
+### Tight architectural tolerances and loose structural tolerances do not meet without help. A fabrication built to plus or minus one-sixteenth of an inch that bolts to structural steel erected to AISC 303 tolerances - plus or minus one-half inch in elevation and one inch in plan - cannot fit without adjustment. The fabricator must build in slotted or adjustable connections and verify field dimensions, or the tight piece will not land. {note}
+
+### Architecturally exposed fabrications shall be held to plus or minus 1/16 in. on overall dimensions up to 10 ft and plus or minus 1/8 in. beyond 10 ft.
+
+### Angular alignment shall be held within 1/8 in. per 6 ft, and members shall be plumb and level within 1/8 in. per 6 ft after erection.
+
+### Connections between tight-tolerance architectural fabrications and structural steel erected to AISC 303 tolerances shall incorporate slotted holes or other adjustment provisions sufficient to absorb the difference.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fabrication tolerance class
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Standard fabrication (± 1/8 in.)"
+ - "Precision architectural (± 1/16 in. to 10 ft)"
+default: "Precision architectural (± 1/16 in. to 10 ft)"
+```
+
+# Finishes {toc}
+
+## This Standard specifies the surface preparation and the shop primer or galvanize base. The high-performance topcoat system applied over that base is specified in [[sync/high-performance-coatings]], and the two must be coordinated so the primer and topcoat are compatible. {note}
+
+## Surface Preparation {toc}
+
+### Coatings fail prematurely when applied over an inadequately prepared surface. The required cleanliness depends on the service: a dry interior primed item tolerates power-tool cleaning, but any item receiving a high-performance exterior coating requires abrasive blast cleaning to remove mill scale and provide a profile. {note}
+
+### Steel to receive shop primer for interior dry service shall be prepared to SSPC-SP 3 (Power Tool Cleaning) minimum.
+
+### Steel to receive a high-performance coating shall be prepared to SSPC-SP 6/NACE No. 3 (Commercial Blast Cleaning) minimum, or to the higher grade required by the coating manufacturer.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Surface preparation
+type: radio
+options:
+ - SSPC-SP 3 Power Tool Cleaning (interior dry, shop primer)
+ - SSPC-SP 6 / NACE No. 3 Commercial Blast (high-performance coating)
+default: SSPC-SP 6 / NACE No. 3 Commercial Blast (high-performance coating)
+```
+
+## Hot-Dip Galvanizing {toc}
+
+### Galvanizing is the base of every durable exterior steel finish. It is also the most common place a finish specification goes wrong: a powder coat or liquid topcoat specified directly over bare exterior carbon steel, with no galvanize base, will fail at the first coating breach because the steel beneath has no sacrificial protection. The durable exterior systems are duplex systems - galvanize first, then topcoat. {note}
+
+### Galvanizing of assemblies requires vent and drain holes so the molten zinc fills and drains properly and the assembly does not trap zinc or explode from sealed cavities; ASTM A385 gives the detailing rules. {note}
+
+### Carbon steel fabrications for exterior or moist exposure shall be hot-dip galvanized after fabrication per ASTM A123, with a minimum average coating of 2.0 oz/ft² for material 1/4 in. and thicker and 1.8 oz/ft² for lighter sections.
+
+### Hardware and fasteners to be galvanized shall conform to ASTM A153.
+
+### Welded assemblies to be galvanized shall be detailed with vent and drain holes in accordance with ASTM A385.
+
+### Galvanized coatings damaged by field cutting, welding, or handling shall be repaired in accordance with ASTM A780.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hot-dip galvanize carbon steel (exterior / moist)
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Yes - ASTM A123 after fabrication"
+ - "No - interior dry, primer only"
+default: "Yes - ASTM A123 after fabrication"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Minimum galvanized coating weight (ASTM A123)
+type: select
+unit: oz/ft²
+options:
+ - "1.8"
+ - "2.0"
+default: "2.0"
+```
+
+## Exterior Steel Finish System {toc}
+
+### Specifying a topcoat over carbon steel without a galvanize base is the most common finish failure on exterior fabrications. The duplex system - galvanize plus a liquid or powder topcoat - gives a 20 to 25 year service life and is the standard for exposed exterior steel. Powder coat alone over phosphate is acceptable interior, but not for fully exposed exterior without the galvanize base. {note}
+
+### Exterior carbon steel fabrications shall receive a duplex finish: hot-dip galvanizing per ASTM A123 followed by a compatible high-performance liquid or powder topcoat specified in [[sync/high-performance-coatings]].
+
+```datasheet
+label: Steel finish system
+type: select
+options:
+ - "Shop primer only (interior dry)"
+ - "Powder coat over zinc-phosphate (interior / sheltered)"
+ - "Duplex: galvanize + powder coat (exterior)"
+ - "Duplex: galvanize + fluoropolymer/polyurethane liquid topcoat (exterior, most durable)"
+default: "Duplex: galvanize + powder coat (exterior)"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Powder coat minimum dry film thickness
+type: range
+unit: mil
+min: 2
+max: 4
+step: 0.5
+default: 3
+```
+
+## Aluminum Finish System {toc}
+
+### Fluoropolymer (PVDF) coatings are graded by resin content, and the two AAMA grades are not interchangeable. AAMA 2605 (70% PVDF) is the correct level for fully exposed exterior; AAMA 2604 (50% PVDF) is for sheltered exterior only. Specifying 2604 where 2605 belongs shortens the warranty and the gloss-and-chalk resistance of the finish - a common and consequential substitution. {note}
+
+### Fully exposed exterior aluminum shall receive an AAMA 2605 (70% PVDF) fluoropolymer coating with a minimum 1.2 mil dry film thickness.
+
+### Sheltered exterior aluminum shall receive an AAMA 2604 (50% PVDF) coating minimum; anodized finishes shall conform to NAAMM AMP 500 for the specified class where anodizing is the architectural intent.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Aluminum finish system
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "AAMA 2604 (50% PVDF) - sheltered exterior"
+ - "AAMA 2605 (70% PVDF) - fully exposed exterior"
+ - "Class I anodize (NAAMM AMP 500)"
+default: "AAMA 2605 (70% PVDF) - fully exposed exterior"
+```
+
+## Stainless and Mechanical Finishes {toc}
+
+### Stainless steel architectural finishes shall be specified by NAAMM AMP 500 designation, and exposed stainless shall be passivated after fabrication to restore corrosion resistance.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Stainless steel exposed finish (NAAMM AMP 500)
+type: select
+options:
+ - "No. 4 satin / directional polish"
+ - "No. 8 mirror polish"
+ - "Bead-blast matte"
+default: "No. 4 satin / directional polish"
+```
+
+## Weathering Steel {toc}
+
+### Weathering steel per ASTM A588/A847 is sometimes chosen as an architectural feature for its self-protecting rust patina. The hazard is runoff: rust-laden water washing off weathering steel permanently stains adjacent concrete, masonry, and paving. If a weathering-steel feature is used, drip management and isolation detailing are mandatory, or the architect's feature becomes a maintenance liability. {note}
+
+### Where weathering steel is specified, the detailing shall include drip edges, isolation, and runoff management to prevent staining of adjacent concrete, masonry, and paving.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Weathering steel feature elements
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Not used"
+ - "Used - with runoff and stain-control detailing"
+default: "Not used"
+```
+
+# Sunshade and Brise-Soleil Systems {toc}
+
+## Sun-control assemblies range from a few fixed extruded blades to motorized adjustable arrays. The blade type, depth, and actuation must be selected, and the supporting structure designed for wind, before the system can be detailed. {note}
+
+### Sunshade and brise-soleil systems shall be delegated-design assemblies with blades, arms, and connections sized for the governing wind load and the serviceability deflection limit of this Standard.
+
+### Adjustable and motorized sunshade actuators and controls shall be furnished with operation and maintenance data and shall be coordinated with the electrical and controls scope.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Sunshade blade type
+type: select
+options:
+ - Extruded aluminum airfoil blade
+ - Fabricated steel flat or curved blade
+ - Perforated panel blade
+default: Extruded aluminum airfoil blade
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Blade depth
+type: range
+unit: in
+min: 2
+max: 8
+step: 1
+default: 4
+drawing_ref: true
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Blade actuation
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Fixed at specified angle
+ - Manually adjustable
+ - Motorized adjustable
+default: Fixed at specified angle
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fixed blade angle
+type: range
+unit: degrees
+min: 0
+max: 90
+step: 5
+default: 30
+drawing_ref: true
+```
+
+# Canopy Frames {toc}
+
+## Entry canopies are cantilevered or strut-supported steel frames that project over a building entrance. Because they project and are wind-governed, they require sealed design and a defined bearing or anchorage interface to the primary structure. {note}
+
+### Canopy frames shall be delegated-design assemblies anchored to the primary structure by the connection type shown, with the bearing and anchorage detailed by the delegated-design engineer.
+
+### Field-bolted canopy connections to masonry shall provide a minimum bearing as required by the delegated-design detail, and connections to steel shall bear on a designed bearing plate.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Canopy primary structure
+type: select
+options:
+ - HSS tube frame
+ - Wide-flange / built-up plate frame
+ - Pipe frame
+default: HSS tube frame
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Canopy connection to building
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Field-bolted to wall embeds (furnished under miscellaneous-metals)
+ - Post-installed anchors to concrete
+ - Field-welded to primary steel frame
+default: Field-bolted to wall embeds (furnished under miscellaneous-metals)
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Anchor rod grade (ASTM F1554)
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Grade 36 (default)"
+ - "Grade 55"
+ - "Grade 105 (high uplift / seismic)"
+default: "Grade 36 (default)"
+```
+
+# Architectural Screens and Grille Panels {toc}
+
+## Decorative screens and grilles are welded plate or bar assemblies set into a tube frame and shop-finished. They are visual elements, so weld quality and pattern alignment are held to the architecturally exposed class. {note}
+
+### Screen and grille panels shall be fabricated to the pattern shown, with members aligned and welds finished to the architecturally exposed quality class of this Standard.
+
+### Screen panels shall be field-bolted into their tube frames with concealed fasteners where exposed to view, and the frame shall be anchored per the connection type shown.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Screen / grille panel pattern material
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Flat plate
+ - Bar stock
+ - Perforated sheet
+default: Flat plate
+```
+
+# Access Hatches and Floor Covers {toc}
+
+## Floor access hatches and trench and pit covers are set into the structure, usually into concrete poured by the concrete contractor. The single most common coordination failure is releasing the hatch selection late: if the opening is already poured when the hatch size changes, the slab must be cored or saw-cut. Hatch selections must be coordinated with the concrete contractor's pour schedule. {note}
+
+### Access hatch and floor-cover frames shall be coordinated with and delivered for setting in the concrete formwork in accordance with the concrete contractor's pour schedule; see [[sync/cast-in-place-concrete]].
+
+### Hatches shall be rated for the traffic load of their installed location, and hatch frames in exterior or wet locations shall be hot-dip galvanized with gasketed weatherstripping.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Access hatch mounting
+type: select
+options:
+ - Floor-recessed (pit / trench)
+ - Wall-mounted
+ - Roof-mounted
+default: Floor-recessed (pit / trench)
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hatch leaf configuration
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Single leaf
+ - Double leaf
+default: Single leaf
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Hatch traffic rating
+type: radio
+options:
+ - "Pedestrian (300 lb/ft²)"
+ - "H-20 vehicular (16,000 lb axle load)"
+default: "Pedestrian (300 lb/ft²)"
+```
+
+# Corner Guards and Edge Protection {toc}
+
+## Corner guards protect wall corners in traffic areas while presenting a specified architectural finish; the material and finish are selected to match the adjacent wall finish and the abuse level. {note}
+
+### Corner guards and edge protection shall be fabricated of the specified material and finish and shall be surface-mounted or recessed as shown, with concealed anchorage where exposed to view.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Corner guard material and finish
+type: select
+options:
+ - Powder-coated carbon steel
+ - Type 304 stainless, No. 4 finish
+ - Type 316 stainless, No. 4 finish (corrosive)
+ - Anodized aluminum
+default: Type 304 stainless, No. 4 finish
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Corner guard mounting height
+type: range
+unit: in
+min: 36
+max: 96
+step: 12
+default: 48
+drawing_ref: true
+```
+
+# Equipment Enclosures and Housings {toc}
+
+## Custom steel enclosures conceal mechanical or electrical equipment behind a specified finish. They must be ventilated for the equipment they house and detailed with access panels for service. {note}
+
+### Equipment enclosures shall be fabricated of the specified sheet thickness with a welded angle frame, hinged or removable access panels, and louvered openings sized for the equipment's ventilation requirement.
+
+### Enclosures exposed to exterior or wet conditions shall be galvanized or stainless and shall be detailed to drain and to exclude bulk water from the housed equipment.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Enclosure sheet thickness
+type: select
+unit: ga / in
+options:
+ - "12 ga"
+ - "10 ga"
+ - "3/16 in."
+default: "10 ga"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Enclosure access panel
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Piano-hinged door
+ - Removable bolted panel
+default: Piano-hinged door
+```
+
+# Connections and Anchorage {toc}
+
+## Custom fabrications connect to the structure in one of a few ways, and the choice determines who furnishes what and when. Cast-in embeds must be furnished and located before the concrete is poured; post-installed anchors are drilled after. The coordination failure here is invisible until erection: a fabrication designed around an embed that was omitted or mislocated becomes a field problem with no good fix. {note}
+
+### Embed drawings for fabrications designed around cast-in items shall be furnished by the architectural metal fabricator to the concrete contractor; they shall not be assumed to appear on the structural drawings.
+
+### Cast-in embed plates for these fabrications, when furnished under [[sync/miscellaneous-metals]], shall be coordinated for location and orientation by the architectural metal fabricator's embed drawings.
+
+### Post-installed anchors used to attach fabrications to hardened concrete shall conform to [[sync/post-installed-anchors]] and shall be the type and embedment required by the delegated-design detail.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Primary anchorage method
+type: radio
+options:
+ - Cast-in embeds (furnished under miscellaneous-metals)
+ - Post-installed anchors to hardened concrete
+ - Field-bolted flange to primary steel
+ - Field-welded to primary steel
+default: Cast-in embeds (furnished under miscellaneous-metals)
+```
+
+# Installation {toc}
+
+## Field Verification {toc}
+
+### The Contractor shall verify field dimensions and the location and condition of supporting structure and embeds before fabricating tight-tolerance pieces.
+
+### The Contractor shall report any discrepancies in field dimensions or embed location and condition before proceeding with fabrication.
+
+### Mislocated or omitted embeds shall be reported and resolved by an Engineer-of-Record-approved remedy before the affected fabrication is installed.
+
+## Field Connections and Repair {toc}
+
+### Field welds on architecturally exposed surfaces shall be ground and finished to match the shop-applied finish.
+
+### Galvanized or coated surfaces damaged during erection shall be repaired to the original system per ASTM A780 for galvanizing and the coating manufacturer's instructions for organic coatings.
+
+### Sealant joints between metal fabrications and adjacent construction shall be installed per [[sync/joint-sealants]], and exposed touch-up painting shall conform to [[sync/exterior-painting]] where field finishing is required.
+
+## Isolation {toc}
+
+### Metal fabrications in contact with dissimilar metals or with concrete and masonry shall be isolated to prevent galvanic and alkaline corrosion at the contact surfaces.
+
+# Delivery, Storage, and Handling {toc}
+
+## Finished architectural fabrications are easily marred, and a scratch in a No. 8 mirror finish or a PVDF coating is far more expensive to fix in the field than to prevent in transit. Protected packaging and careful storage are part of the finish specification, not an afterthought. {note}
+
+### Fabrications shall be delivered with the finished surfaces protected by strippable film, padding, or crating appropriate to the finish.
+
+### Fabrications shall be stored off the ground, under cover, and sloped to drain, and shall not be stacked in a manner that damages finishes or distorts members.
+
+### Protective film and packaging shall remain in place until immediately before final cleaning and acceptance.
+
+# Warranty {toc}
+
+## The warranty period for finishes is the practical measure of the finish specification: an AAMA 2605 coating carries a meaningfully longer finish warranty than an AAMA 2604 coating, and the duplex steel system is what makes a 20-year exterior steel warranty credible. {note}
+
+### The fabricator shall warrant the fabrications against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of not less than two years from Substantial Completion.
+
+### High-performance coatings shall carry the coating manufacturer's standard finish warranty against cracking, peeling, and excessive fade and chalk for the specified period.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Fabrication workmanship warranty
+type: select
+unit: years
+options:
+ - "1"
+ - "2"
+ - "5"
+default: "2"
+```
+
+```datasheet
+label: Coating finish warranty
+type: select
+unit: years
+options:
+ - "10"
+ - "20"
+default: "20"
+```
+
+# Spare Parts {toc}
+
+## The maintainable parts of these fabrications are the moving and consumable items - sunshade actuators, hatch hardware, and touch-up finish to repair the inevitable field scratches over the building's life. {note}
+
+### The Contractor shall furnish touch-up coating material matched to each specified shop finish, in the quantity required for field maintenance.
+
+### For adjustable and motorized sunshade systems, the Contractor shall furnish the manufacturer's recommended spare actuators, hardware, and lubricants.
+
+```datasheet
+label: Spare parts to furnish
+type: checkbox
+options:
+ - Matched touch-up coating for each finish
+ - Spare sunshade actuators and hardware
+ - Spare hatch hardware and gaskets
+defaults:
+ - Matched touch-up coating for each finish
+```